Abstract

Creatine monohydrate is commonly used by bodybuilders and athletes and is one of the most well researched supplements in the world. It is used as an aid to help boost athletic performance by increasing stamina and decreasing recovery time, therefore increasing lean muscle mass. Previous research has established a link between creatine supplementation and antidepressant-like effects. However, the relationship between creatine monohydrate supplementation and anxiety is still not well understood. This study aimed to investigate the anxiolytic effects of creatine monohydrate in rodents using the elevated plus maze. Twelve Sprague-Dawley rats were evenly assigned to a 4% w/w of creatine monohydrate supplemented group or a control group. Both groups were fed specific individual diets for 5 weeks based on their body weight, with an additional week of habituation. While on the elevated plus maze, the more anxious rodents normally move inside the closed arms of the maze while the less anxious rodents explore the open arms of the maze. Results showed no significant difference in body weight or time spent in different arms of the elevated plus maze between the two groups. This may be due to the lack of comorbidity between anxiety and depression in rodents, the duration of supplementation, or how there was no initial stressor to induce anxiety before participating in the elevated plus maze. Our study did not find evidence for an anxiolytic effect of creatine monohydrate supplementation in rodents. Future studies should investigate higher concentrations of creatine in the daily diets, longer supplementation periods, and measure reactions to anxiety after a stressor is put in place.

Advisor

Stavnezer, Amy Jo

Department

Neuroscience

Publication Date

2023

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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